Business Licences

Business Licences

Please direct questions to Mary Waite, mwaite@terrace.ca, 250-615-4000 

Who Needs a Business Licence?

All commercial, home-based and/or mobile businesses operating in the City of Terrace require a valid business licence. This includes anyone operating within City limits as well as businesses based elsewhere and providing services and/or delivering goods within City limits. 

For example, a home-based business owner in Thornhill requires a licence to serve customers in Terrace. A contractor from Vancouver who is working in Terrace for the summer requires a licence. A freelance photographer and or someone selled home-made baked goods online require a licence. 

Fast Facts 

  • Valid from January 1 to December 31.
  • Must be renewed annually.
  • Cost depends on the type of business, ranging from $68 and up. 
  • Business that do not have a valid licence can be fined or shut down. 

Apply for a Licence Online 

Personal Service Business Requirements

The following types of businesses, which provide a service to the body of another person, must receive approval by an Environmental Health Officer prior to a City of Terrace business licence being issued. 

  • Hair salons
  • Barber shops
  • Tattoo parlours
  • Massage parlours
  • Acupuncturists
  • Electrolysis
  • Manicure/Pedicure
  • Sauna
  • Tanning

Once the business receives a copy of the Health approval, they must submit it to the City's Building & Licensing department, and a City Building inspector will determine whether all requirements have been met.

Contact the Northern Health's Terrace office of the Environmental Health Department for more info: 250-631-4222.